Fact Check: "Smith's name choice for FedEx aimed to sound 'big and important.'"
What We Know
Fred Smith, the founder of FedEx, has publicly stated that he chose the name "Federal Express" because he wanted the company to sound "big and important," despite it being a start-up operation at the time. This information was highlighted in several reports, including an obituary published by the Los Angeles Times, which noted that Smith aimed for a name that would convey significance while the company was still in its early stages (source-2). Additionally, Smith reiterated this point in a 2023 interview with the Associated Press, confirming that the name was part of his strategy to establish credibility in the competitive shipping industry (source-5).
Analysis
The claim that Smith's choice of name for FedEx was intended to sound "big and important" is corroborated by multiple reliable sources. The Los Angeles Times, a reputable news outlet, reported on Smith's intention behind the name, emphasizing that it was a strategic decision made during a time when the company was not yet established (source-2). Furthermore, the Associated Press, known for its journalistic integrity, also confirmed this aspect of Smith's narrative, reinforcing the credibility of the claim (source-5).
The reliability of these sources is significant; both the Los Angeles Times and the Associated Press are established news organizations with a history of accurate reporting. Their coverage of Smith's statements provides a strong foundation for the claim's validity. Additionally, the context surrounding the name choice—Smith's efforts to secure a contract with the Federal Reserve Bank—adds further credibility to his rationale for wanting a name that conveyed importance (source-2).
Conclusion
The claim that "Smith's name choice for FedEx aimed to sound 'big and important'" is True. This conclusion is based on Smith's own statements, which have been reported by credible news organizations, confirming that the name was strategically chosen to project an image of significance and reliability during the company's formative years.
Sources
- FedEx founder Fred Smith obituary: Package delivery pioneer dies at 80 ... Los Angeles Times
- Smith once said he came up with the name Federal Express because he wanted the company to sound big and important ... NPR
- FedEx founder Fred Smith, a Marine Corps veteran who revolutionized ... NBC News
- TOP 19 QUOTES BY FREDERICK W. SMITH | A-Z Quotes A-Z Quotes
